ZPCBlog

About the author: Erika has been attending ZPC since Cantata Sunday 2005. She wants to thank all of those at ZPC that have poured love into her four children. Also, she appreciates being part of a Home Group that is actively living life together and allows a space to share our ups and downs. 

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him who have been called according to His purpose.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Romans 8:28

The theme of the second week of Advent is peace. How can we focus on peace in our lives during this Advent season? I’d like to go back one verse to Romans 8:27 as written in The Message, “He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God.” As we inch toward Christmas Day and the celebration of Jesus’ birth, this verse makes me think about Mary and her “pregnant condition.” Mary along with Joseph plodding toward Bethlehem. But what does knowing our “pregnant condition” mean in reference to us? Just as in pregnancy it illustrates our anticipation and hope which comes with the joy of new life. Of course, pregnancy at times comes with pain and suffering. As believers we are encouraged to endure the pains along with the hope and anticipation of the promise of something greater to come. Mary’s belly grows just as our excitement grows with anticipation of new life. She also couldn’t see what was growing inside of her nor do we see all that may be involved in our spiritual growth. So, the excitement, anticipation, and growth within us is illustrated by the term “our pregnant condition.”

Then Paul writes in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Paul was speaking to all believers in Rome at the time. We, as believers, can be at peace with this verse as it gives us hope and reminds us to trust in God’s plan. We eagerly await the coming of Christ during Advent and Romans 8:28 reminds us to trust his purposes that it is altogether good, even in challenging and uncertain times. I can see why this verse is selected as a referenced verse during this second week of Advent. It is a wonderful verse to keep on the ready during those times when I may wrestle with situations in my life. I can be at peace that God has a perfect plan, and nothing is beyond his control. He is working behind the scenes for my ultimate good. Remembering that there might not be immediate relief from my struggles, but through faith I must hold onto the promise of a future with him. It may be difficult in the midst of a difficult time, but I have to continue to have faith. I also know I cannot do it alone and have learned that reaching out to others is so important.

Following is visual reminder of this promise. The Christmas season is usually a season of baking. So, as your family bakes your favorite pie, cake, or cookies reflect on Romans 8:28. Think of the ingredients as our life experiences some are good (sugar or chocolate) while other ingredients are not as good (flour or oil).  But just as God works all things together for good once combined all the ingredients will work together to create a delicious treat. This is a great way to teach children that God has a plan and will use all things – the good and the bad – to create something beautiful.

Prayer:

Dear Lord,
Thank you for loving us so much that you have an ultimate plan for each of us. Even though we may experience struggles give us the peace to know that all things will be worked for our good. It may not be here on this Earth but life with you will be the most wonderful treat. Thank you for sending your son and let us enjoy the anticipation of his arrival. 
Amen.

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